So far its great! I've already done two 6hr endurance races on it and a few more day rides that were pretty long. All the components seem to be holding up just fine, the wheels are staying true, the shock and fork haven't had any issues, and the frame hasn't broken! This is by far the best bike I've ever owned. Going from hardtail to a full suspension wasn't even that big of a deal with this bike. Climbing on it is awesome and bombing the downhill sections is smooth. I also really appreciate how light the bike feels and is. If you're thinking about getting one, think no further.

My spearfish 2 has been a lot of fun. I am a long time hardtail rider and the change leaves me thinking I have a flat rear tire frequently, but I'm getting used to it. Definitely does not climb the same as a hardtail, but after a 40 mile ride I'm not as sore. no regrets here!

There was a test someone did and posted it in the 29er forum a few months back about FS & HT 29ers and traction and in the test the FS29er got faster lap times.. I had a problem thinking for the last few years that HT 29s where the only way for me and if I could only have one it would have been a HT 29er but that has changed now, now it would be a FS 29er but having both is better becuse they both have their place but it's that after 40 mile thing that jake is talking about that's what has my interest.

I noticed another poster had rear hub problems. I also had rear hub failure; something in the freewheel broke and now it acts like a fixed gear. I can only pedal forward. The LBS and Salsa are taking care of it.

I ride in Austin; the trails are rocky with lots of ledge drops. I'm 235lbs, I ride hard, and I'm not at all smooth on the bike (although I'm working on it). I suppose that combination is not good for component longevity

which fish?

Originally Posted by greenblur

I noticed another poster had rear hub problems. I also had rear hub failure; something in the freewheel broke and now it acts like a fixed gear. I can only pedal forward. The LBS and Salsa are taking care of it.

I ride in Austin; the trails are rocky with lots of ledge drops. I'm 235lbs, I ride hard, and I'm not at all smooth on the bike (although I'm working on it). I suppose that combination is not good for component longevity